Inflatable furniture assembly system

ABSTRACT

An inflatable furniture system having an inflatable core, a decorative cover, a first attachment mechanism and a second attachment mechanism. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. The decorative cover at least partially covers the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover. The second attachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The first attachment mechanism is capable of engaging the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect to the inflatable core.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to Provisional Applic. No. 62/573,872,filed on Oct. 18, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to seating. More particularly,the invention relates to an inflatable furniture assembly system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Bean bag furniture is popular because it can be configured in a varietyof shapes. However, bean bag furniture presents a number of challenges.Foam beads inside of the bean bag furniture present a potential healthhazard if they enter a person's nose or mouth. As such, there areregulations regarding the sealing of the bean bag furniture to preventunauthorized access to the foam beads.

These regulations substantially prevent changing the outer cover of thebean bag furniture such as to provide the bean bag furniture with adifferent appearance or to replace a discolored or damaged bean bagfurniture enclosure. Another challenge of bean bag furniture is that itoccupies a large volume, which presents challenges and/or additionalexpenses for shipping bean bag furniture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is directed to an inflatable furniture system includes aninflatable core, a decorative cover, a first attachment mechanism and asecond attachment mechanism. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosedregion. The decorative cover at least partially covers the inflatablecore. The first attachment mechanism is attached to one of theinflatable core and the decorative cover. The second attachmentmechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorativecover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached. The firstattachment mechanism is capable of engaging the second attachmentmechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position with respect tothe inflatable core.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method ofassembling furniture. An inflatable core and a decorative cover areprovided. The inflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. A firstattachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and thedecorative cover. A second attachment mechanism is attached to one ofthe inflatable core and the decorative cover to which the firstattachment mechanism is not attached. The decorative cover is placed atleast partially over the inflatable core. The first attachment mechanismengages the second attachment mechanism to retain the decorative coverin a position with respect to the inflatable core.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatablefurniture system that includes an inflatable core, a decorative cover, afirst attachment mechanism and a second attachment mechanism. Theinflatable core has a sealed enclosed region. The decorative cover atleast partially covers the inflatable core. The first attachmentmechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorativecover. The second attachment mechanism includes a first retention taband a second retention tab. The second attachment mechanism is attachedto one of the inflatable core and the decorative cover to which thefirst attachment mechanism is not attached. The second attachmentmechanism includes a first attachment strap and a second attachmentstrap. The first retention tab is capable of detachably engaging thefirst attachment strap. The second retention tab is capable ofdetachably engaging the second attachment strap. The first attachmentstrap and the first retention tab both have a first identifyingmechanism. The second attachment strap and the second retention tab bothhave a second identifying mechanism. The first identifying mechanism isdifferent than the second identifying mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of embodiments and are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments andtogether with the description serve to explain principles ofembodiments. Other embodiments and many of the intended advantages ofembodiments will be readily appreciated as they become better understoodby reference to the following detailed description. The elements of thedrawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Likereference numerals designate corresponding similar parts.

FIG. 1A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chairaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative coverplaced over the inflatable core of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorativecover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chairaccording to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative coverplaced over the inflatable core of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorativecover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is an image of an inflatable core for an inflatable chairaccording to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is an image of the inflatable chair having a decorative coverplaced over the inflatable core of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a lower view of the inflatable chair having the decorativecover placed over the inflatable core of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an image of a tab attached to a lower surface of theinflatable core.

FIG. 5 is an image of a plurality of tabs attached to the lower surfaceof the inflatable core.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chair 10 asillustrated in FIGS. 1A-1C. The inflatable chair 10 generally includesan inflatable core 12 and a decorative cover 14. As described in greaterdetail herein, the decorative cover 14 extends substantially over theinflatable core 12. Removable attachment of the decorative cover 14 tothe inflatable core 12 enables consumers to readily change theappearance of the chair or replace the inflatable core 12 or thedecorative cover 14 if damaged.

The inflatable core 12 includes a sealed enclosed region that is adaptedto receive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gas therebyprovides the inflatable core 12 with a generally rigid shape thatenables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 10 to be supported in amanner that is similar in which a person is supported in a traditionalpapasan chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 12 may be varied bychanging the volume of gas that is placed in the inflatable core 12. Inother embodiments, the inflatable core 12 may be filled with liquids andsolids, an example of which is foam beads.

The inflatable core 12 includes a top panel 16, a middle panel 18 and abottom panel 8, as illustrated in FIG. 1A. The top panel 16, middlepanel 18 and bottom panel 8 are generally circular in shape. In analternative embodiment, the inflatable core 12 includes only a top panel16, and a bottom panel 8. A person of skill in the art would appreciatethe use of additional shapes in the creation of the disclosed inflatablechair 10. Examples of which include an oval, square or rectangle.

The generally circular top panel 16, middle panel 18, and bottom panel 8may be connected along an edge thereof 1n some embodiments, theconnections may defined along two connection points; the circular edgebetween the top panel 16 and middle panel 18 and the circular edgebetween the middle panel 18 and the bottom panel 8.

The top panel 16, middle panel 18 and bottom panel 8 may be connectedusing a variety of techniques, examples of which include an adhesive ora heat seal. A person of skill in the art will appreciate additionalmethods of connecting the top panel 16, middle panel 18 and bottom panel8 to create the inflatable core 12.

The top panel 16 has a seat portion 20, back portion 22, side portion24, 26 and a leg rest portion 28 which may be defined as generallysymmetrical on all sides, wherein the top panel 16 is connected to themiddle panel 1 8 and bottom panel S by a connector (not shown).

The connectors may be defined by at least one piece that extends betweenthe top panel 16 and bottom panel 8. In certain embodiments theconnector may be fabricated from the same material as the othercomponents of the inflatable core 12.

The at least one connector holds a portion of the top panel 16 in agenerally recessed configuration to define the seat portion 20, backportion 22, side portion 24, 26 and leg rest portion 28 when filling theinflatable core 12 with the compressed gas.

The seat portion 20 may be located proximate a center of the inflatablecore 12. In certain embodiments, the seat portion 20 may have agenerally circular shape. In an alternative embodiment, the seat portion20 may have a plurality of ridges to offer additional structuralintegrity and stability for the user.

Adjacent one edge of the seat portion 20 is the back portion 22. In analternative embodiment, the back portion 22 may be in a slightlyelevated orientation to offer additional back support for the user. Incertain embodiments, the back portion 22 has a plurality of ribs tooffer structural integrity and provide additional support to the user.

Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 20, and on opposite sides ofthe back portion 22 are the side portions 24, 26. The side portion 24,26 includes a first side portion 24 and a second side portion 26. Thefirst side portion 24 may have a shape that is similar to the shape ofthe second side portion 26. In some embodiments, the first and secondside portions 24. 26 have a plurality of ribs to offer structuralintegrity and provide additional support to the user.

Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 20 that is generally oppositethe back portion 20 is the leg rest portion 28. In an alternativeembodiment, the leg rest portion 28 may be in a slightly recessedorientation for the user's legs to rest, or hang freely over the legrest portion 28 of the inflatable chair 10. In certain embodiments, theleg rest portion 28 has a plurality of ribs to offer structuralintegrity and provide additional support to the user.

The at least one of the top panel 16 and bottom panel 8 has a valve 2for receipt of the compressed gas. In some embodiments, it is possiblefor the valve 2 to be attached on other portions of the inflatable core12.

An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching thedecorative cover 14 with respect to the inflatable core 12. A pluralityof retention tabs 4 may be provided in a spaced apart configuration onthe inflatable core 12, as illustrated in FIGS. 1C, 4 and 5. Theplurality of retention tabs 4 minimizes movement of the decorative cover14 with respect to the inflatable core 12.

In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 4 has an aperture 6 formedtherein. Each of the retention tabs 4 may be different color and/or havea unique shape printed thereon to assist in identification when placingthe decorative cover 14 over the inflatable core 12.

The decorative cover 14 includes an attachment strap 15 that assistswith securing the decorative cover 14 to the inflatable core 12, asillustrated in FIG. 1C. The attachment strap 15 may be attached to aninner surface of the decorative cover 14. The attachment strap 15 may befabricated from the same material as the other components of thedecorative cover 14. In some embodiments, the attachment strap 15 may bea different color, or have a shape printed thereon to assist inidentification of the attachment straps 15 with respect to the retentiontabs 4.

The attachment strap 15 engages the retention tab 4 to retain thedecorative cover 14 in a position with respect to the inflatable core12. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 15 extends through anaperture in the retention tab 4 and then is secured such as using aknot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 15 includes a firstsnap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab 4.In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 15 includes a buttonthat is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 4. A personof skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of thecomponents may be reversed.

To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 14 in aposition with respect to the inflatable core 12, there may be multipleretention tabs 4 and multiple attachment straps 15. The retention tabs 4and the attachment straps 15 may be spaced apart from each other.

The decorative cover 14 is formed with a shape that is similar to theshape of the inflatable core 12 when in the inflated configuration. Insome embodiments, the decorative cover 14 adapts to the shape of theinflatable core 12 when the inflatable core 12 is in the useconfiguration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of thedecorative cover 14 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such aconfiguration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against theinflatable core 12.

The decorative cover 14 may be fabricated from a standard fabric foundin the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person ofskill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric inthe fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 14. Examples of whichinclude: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.

In one embodiment, the decorative cover 14 has a closure mechanism 30such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loopfastener. The closure mechanism 30 facilitates closing the decorativecover 14 over the inflatable core 12. The closure mechanism 30 typicallymay run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottom or sidesof the decorative cover 14.

In another embodiment, the decorative cover 14 has at least onedraw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative cover 14around the inflatable core 12. The draw-string may be located in thecorners of the decorative cover 14 to provide the ability to tighten thedecorative cover 14 over the inflatable chair 10 on all surfaces.

In use, the inflatable core 12 is placed inside the decorative cover 14in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 15 on thedecorative cover 14 are extended through the tab apertures 6 to securethe decorative cover 12 to the inflatable core 12. The inflatable core12 is then filled with the compressed gas through the valve 2 utilizinga variety of techniques an individual with skill in the art wouldrecognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 12 is in a filledconfiguration, the decorative cover 14 is sealed around the bottom panel8 such as using the closure mechanism 30.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chairas illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C. The inflatable chair 110 generallyincludes an inflatable core 112 and a decorative cover 114. As describedin greater detail herein, the decorative cover 114 extends substantiallyover the inflatable core 112. Removable attachment of the decorativecover 114 to the inflatable core 112 enables consumers to readily changethe appearance of the chair or replace the inflatable core 112 or thedecorative cover 114, if damaged.

The inflatable core 112 includes a sealed enclosed region that isadapted to receive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gasthereby provides the inflatable core 112 with a generally rigid shapethat enables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 110 to besupported in a manner that is similar to which a person is supported ina conventional bean bag chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 112may be varied by changing the volume of gas that is placed in theinflatable core 112. In other embodiments, the inflatable core 112 maybe filled with liquids and solids, an example of which is foam beads.

The inflatable core 112 includes a top panel 116 and a bottom panel 108.The top panel 116 and the bottom panel 108 are generally circular inshape. However, someone with skill in the art can appreciate the use ofadditional shapes in the creation of the disclosed inflatable chair 110.Examples of which include an oval, square or rectangle.

The top panel 116 and the bottom panel 108 may be connected along anedge thereof. The top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 may be connectedusing a variety of techniques, examples of which include an adhesive ora heat seal. A person of skill in the art will appreciate other methodsthat may be used to connect the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 tocreate the inflatable core 112.

The top panel 116 defines a seat portion 120, a back portion 122, sideportions 124, 126, and a leg rest portion 128 when the top panel 116 isconnected to the bottom panel 108 using a connector (not shown).

These connectors extend between the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108.In certain embodiments the connector may be fabricated from the samematerial as the other components of the inflatable core 112.

The at least one connector holds a portion of the top panel 116 in agenerally recessed configuration to define the seat portion 120, theback portion 122, the side portions 124, 126, and the leg rest portion128 when filling the inflatable core 112 with the compressed gas. In analternative embodiment, the seat portion 120, back portion 122, sideportions 124, 126, and the leg rest portion 128 are defined when theuser sits on the inflatable chair 110.

The seat portion 120 may be located proximate a center of the inflatablecore 112. In certain embodiments, the seat portion 120 may have agenerally square shape. In an alternative embodiment, the seat portion120 may have a plurality of ribs to offer additional structuralintegrity and stability for the user.

Adjacent one edge, the seat portion 120 is the back portion 122. Theback portion 122 may be angled to offer a reclined feel for the user. Incertain embodiments, the back portion 122 has a generally upside downtrapezoid configuration.

Adjacent another edge of the seat portion 120, and on opposite sides ofthe back portion 122 are the side portions 124, 126. The side portions124, 126 include a first side portion 124 and a second side portion 126.The first side portion 124 may have a shape that is similar to the shapeof the second side portion 126. In an additional embodiment, the firstand second side portions 124, 126 are symmetrical.

Adjacent another edge the seat portion 120 that is generally oppositethe back portion 122 is the leg rest portion 128. The leg rest portion128 may be in a slightly recessed orientation relative to the backportion 122 for the user's legs to rest, or hang freely over the legrest portion 128 of the inflatable chair 110. In certain embodiments,the leg rest portion 128 is symmetrical relative to the back portion 122to offer an elevated leg rest to provide the user with a reclined feel.

The at least one of the top panel 116 and bottom panel 108 has a valve102 for receipt of a compressed gas. In some embodiments, it is possiblefor the valve to be attached on other portions of the inflatable core112.

An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching thedecorative cover 114 with respect to the inflatable core 112. Aplurality of retention tabs 104 may be provided in a spaced apartconfiguration on the inflatable core 112, as illustrated in FIG. 2C. Theplurality of retention tabs 104 minimizes movement of the decorativecover 114 with respect to the inflatable core 112.

In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 104 has an aperture 106formed therein. Each of the retention tabs 104 may be different colorand/or have a unique shape printed thereon to assist in identificationwhen placing the decorative cover 114 over the inflatable core 112.

The decorative cover 114 includes an attachment strap 115 that assistswith securing the decorative cover 114 to the inflatable core 112. Theattachment strap 115 may be attached to an inner surface of thedecorative cover 114. The attachment strap 115 may be fabricated fromthe same material as the other components of the decorative cover 114.In some embodiments, the attachment strap 115 may be a different color,or have a shape printed thereon to assist in identification of theattachment straps 115 with respect to the retention tabs 104.

The attachment strap 115 engages the retention tab 104 to retain thedecorative cover 114 in a position with respect to the inflatable core112. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 115 extends through anaperture in the retention tab 104 and then is secured such as using aknot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 115 includes a firstsnap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab104. In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 115 includes abutton that is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 104. Aperson of skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of thecomponents may be reversed.

To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 114 in aposition with respect to the inflatable core 112, there may be multipleretention tabs 104 and multiple attachment straps 115. The retentiontabs 104 and the attachment straps 115 may be spaced apart from eachother. In certain embodiments, there may be four retention tabs 104 incertain embodiments that are spaced an approximately equal distance fromeach other.

The decorative cover 114 is formed with a shape that is similar to theshape of the inflatable core 112 when in the inflated configuration. Insome embodiments, the decorative cover 114 adapts to the shape of theinflatable core 112 when the inflatable core 112 is in the useconfiguration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of thedecorative cover 114 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such aconfiguration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against theinflatable core 112.

The decorative cover 114 may be fabricated from a standard fabric foundin the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person ofskill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric inthe fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 114. Examples of whichinclude: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.

In one embodiment, the decorative cover 114 has a closure mechanism 130such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loopfastener. The closure mechanism 130 facilitates closing the decorativecover 114 over the inflatable core 112. The closure mechanism 130typically may run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottomor sides of the decorative cover 114.

In another embodiment, the decorative cover 114 has at least onedraw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative aroundthe inflatable core 112. The draw-string may be located in the cornersof the decorative cover 114 to provide the ability to tighten thedecorative cover 114 over the inflatable chair 110 on all surfaces.

In use, the inflatable core 112 is placed inside the decorative cover114 in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 115 on thedecorative cover 114 are extended through the tab apertures 106 tosecure the decorative core 112 to the inflatable core 112. Theinflatable core 112 is then filled with the compressed gas through thevalve utilizing a variety of techniques an individual with skill in theart would recognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 112 is ina filled configuration, the decorative cover 114 is sealed around thebottom panel 108 such as using the closure mechanism 130.

Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an inflatable chairas illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The inflatable chair 210 generallyincludes an inflatable core 212 and a decorative cover 214. As describedin more detail herein, the decorative cover 214 extends substantiallyover the inflatable core 212. Removable attachment of the decorativecover 214 to the inflatable core 212 enables consumers to readily changethe appearance of the inflatable chair 210 or replace the inflatablecore or the decorative cover 214 if damaged.

The inflatable core 212 includes a sealed region that is adapted toreceive a compressed gas such as air. The compressed gas therebyprovides the inflatable core 212 with a generally rigid shape thatenables a person sitting on the inflatable chair 210 to be supported ina manner that is similar in which a person is supported in aconventional chair. The rigidity of the inflatable core 212 may bevaried by changing the volume of gas that is placed in the inflatablecore 212. In other embodiments, the inflatable core 212 may be filledwith liquids and solids, an example of which is foam beads.

The inflatable core 212 generally includes a seat portion 220, and backportions 224, 226. The first back portion 224, second back portion 226and seat portion 220 may be connected along the intersection point 260thereof.

The first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220may be connected using a variety of techniques, examples of whichinclude an adhesive or a heat seal. A person of skill in the art willappreciate other methods that may be used to connect the first backportion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220 to create theinflatable core 212.

The first back portion 224, second back portion 226 and seat portion 220at the intersection point 260 is connected by a connector (not shown).The connectors extend between the first back portion 224, second backportion 226 and seat portion 220. In certain embodiments the connectormay be fabricated from the same material as the other components of theinflatable core 212.

The at least one connector may hold the first back portion 224 in agenerally angled orientation relative to the second back portion 226which may also be angled relative to the position of the first backportion 224. In certain embodiments, the connector may hold the firstback portion 224 and the second back portion 226 in a symmetricalorientation.

The at least one connector may hold the seat portion 220 at theintersection point 260 in a generally horizontal orientation. In certainembodiments, the seat portion 220 may be oriented by the connector at anangle that declines when moving from a front edge of the seat portion220 to a back edge of the seat portion 220 at the intersection point260.

The seat portion 220 may have a generally triangular shape and the seatportion 220 intersects the back portions 224, 226 at intersection point260. The seat portion 220 has a seating surface 262 that is generally ina horizontal orientation when the inflatable chair 210 is in a useconfiguration. The seating surface 262 is in a spaced-apartconfiguration with respect to the bottom panel 208 of the seat portion220. A person of skill in the art will appreciate that a distancebetween the seating surface 262 and the bottom panel 208 may be selectedbased upon the size of the person who is intended to use the inflatablechair 210. In some embodiments, the front surface of the seat portion220 may have a convex shape.

In certain embodiments, the first back portion 224 may have a shape thatis similar to a shape of the second back portion 226. The first backportion 224 and the second back portion 226 each include an inner wall264 and an outer wall 266 that is mounted at the intersection point 260in a spaced-apart configuration with respect to each other. In certainembodiments, the first back section 224 and the second back section 226each have an angled upper surface that tapers upwardly when moving froma front of the inflatable chair 210 to a back of the inflatable chair210.

The bottom panel 208 may have a valve 202 for receipt of the compressedgas. In some embodiments, it is possible for the valve to be attached onother portions of the inflatable core 212.

An aspect of the invention utilizes a mechanism for attaching thedecorative cover 214 with respect to the inflatable core 212. Aplurality of retention tabs 204 may be provided in a spaced apartconfiguration on the inflatable core 212, as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Theplurality of retention tabs 204 minimizes movement of the decorativecover 214 with respect to the inflatable core 212.

In an embodiment, each of the retention tabs 204 has an aperture 206formed therein. Each of the retention tabs 204 may be different colorand/or have a unique shape printed thereon to assist in identificationwhen placing the decorative cover 214 over the inflatable core 212.

The decorative cover 214 includes an attachment strap 215 that assistswith securing the decorative cover 214 to the inflatable core 212. Theattachment strap 215 may be attached to an inner surface of thedecorative cover 214. The attachment strap 215 may be fabricated fromthe same material as the other components of the decorative cover 214.In some embodiments, the attachment strap 215 may be a different color,or have a shape printed thereon to assist in identification of theattachment straps 215 with respect to the retention tabs 204.

The attachment strap 215 engages the retention tab 204 to retain thedecorative cover 214 in a position with respect to the inflatable core212. In an embodiment, the attachment strap 215 extends through anaperture in the retention tab 204 and then is secured such as using aknot. In another embodiment, the attachment strap 215 includes a firstsnap portion that engages a second snap portion on the retention tab204. In still another embodiment, the attachment strap 215 includes abutton that is extended through the aperture in the retention tab 204. Aperson of skill in the art will appreciate that the orientation of thecomponents may be reversed.

To further enhance the ability to retain the decorative cover 214 in aposition with respect to the inflatable core 212, there may be multipleretention tabs 204 and multiple attachment straps 215. The retentiontabs 204 and the attachment straps 215 may be spaced apart from eachother. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, there may be four retention tabs 204in certain embodiments that are spaced an approximately equal distancefrom each other.

The decorative cover 214 is formed with a shape that is similar to theshape of the inflatable core 212 when in the inflated configuration. Insome embodiments, the decorative cover 214 adapts to the shape of theinflatable core 212 when the inflatable core 212 is in the useconfiguration. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of thedecorative cover 214 is fabricated from an elastic material. Such aconfiguration may enhance the ability to ensure a tight fit against theinflatable core 212.

The decorative cover 214 may be fabricated from a standard fabric foundin the field in which the present disclosure is directed. A person ofskill in the art could appreciate the use of various types of fabric inthe fabrication of the disclosed decorative cover 214. Examples of whichinclude: cotton, leather, vinyl or polyester.

In one embodiment, the decorative cover 214 has a closure mechanism 230such as a zipper, draw-string, snaps, buttons or a hook and loopfastener. The closure mechanism 230 facilitates closing the decorativecover 214 over the inflatable core 212. The closure mechanism 230typically may run along the portion of fabric associated with the bottomor sides of the decorative cover 214.

In another embodiment, the decorative cover 214 has at least onedraw-string (not shown) to assist in tightening the decorative aroundthe inflatable core 212. The draw-string may be located in the cornersof the decorative cover 214 to provide the ability to tighten thedecorative cover 214 over the inflatable chair 210 on all surfaces.

In use, the inflatable core 212 is placed inside the decorative cover214 in an uninflated configuration. The attachment straps 215 on thedecorative cover 214 are extended through the tab apertures 206 tosecure the decorative core 212 to the inflatable core 212. Theinflatable core 212 is then filled with the compressed gas through thevalve utilizing a variety of techniques. An individual with skill in theart would recognize as self-evident. Once the inflatable core 212 is ina filled configuration, the decorative cover 214 is sealed around thebottom panel 208 such as using the closure mechanism 230.

In the preceding detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shownby way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention maybe practiced. In this regard, directional terminology, such as “top,”“bottom,” “front,” “back,” “leading,” “trailing,” etc., is used withreference to the orientation of the Figure(s) being described. Becausecomponents of embodiments can be positioned in a number of differentorientations, the directional terminology is used for purposes ofillustration and is in no way limiting. It is to be understood thatother embodiments may be utilized and structural or logical changes maybe made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thepreceding detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in alimiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by theappended claims.

It is contemplated that features disclosed in this application, as wellas those described in the above applications incorporated by reference,can be mixed and matched to suit particular circumstances. Various othermodifications and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

1. An inflatable furniture system comprising: an inflatable core havinga sealed enclosed region; a decorative cover that at least partiallycovers the inflatable core; a first attachment mechanism attached to oneof the inflatable core and the decorative cover; and a second attachmentmechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorativecover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached, whereinthe first attachment mechanism is capable of engaging the secondattachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a position withrespect to the inflatable core.
 2. The inflatable furniture system ofclaim 1, wherein the first attachment mechanism is attached to an outersurface of the inflatable core and wherein the second attachmentmechanism is attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover. 3.The inflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the first attachmentmechanism is capable of detachably engaging the second attachmentmechanism to retain the decorative cover in the position with respect tothe inflatable core.
 4. The inflatable furniture system of claim 1,wherein the first attachment mechanism comprises a first retention taband a second retention tab, wherein the second attachment mechanismcomprises a first attachment strap and a second attachment strap,wherein the first retention tab and the first attachment strap both havea first identifying mechanism, wherein the second retention tab and thesecond attachment strap both have a second identifying mechanism andwherein the first identifying mechanism is different than the secondidentifying mechanism.
 5. The inflatable furniture system of claim 4,wherein the first identifying mechanism and the second identifyingmechanism comprise at least one of a color and a shape.
 6. Theinflatable furniture system of claim 1, wherein the inflatable corecomprises a seat portion and a back portion.
 7. The inflatable furnituresystem of claim 1, wherein the inflatable core is inflated with at leastone of air and foam beads.
 8. The inflatable furniture system of claim1, wherein the decorative cover substantially covers the inflatable coreand wherein the decorative cover further comprises a closure mechanism.9. A method of assembling furniture comprising; providing an inflatablecore and a decorative cover, wherein the inflatable core has a sealedenclosed region, wherein a first attachment mechanism is attached to oneof the inflatable core and the decorative cover and wherein a secondattachment mechanism is attached to one of the inflatable core and thedecorative cover to which the at least one retention tab is notattached; placing the decorative cover at least partially over theinflatable core; and engaging the first attachment mechanism and thesecond attachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in a positionwith respect to the inflatable core.
 10. The method of claim 9, whereinthe first attachment mechanism is attached to an outer surface of theinflatable core and wherein the second attachment mechanism is attachedto an inner surface of the decorative cover.
 11. The method of claim 9,wherein the first attachment mechanism detachably engages the secondattachment mechanism to retain the decorative cover in the position withrespect to the inflatable core.
 12. The method of claim 9, wherein thefirst attachment mechanism comprises a first retention tab and a secondretention tab, wherein the second attachment mechanism comprises a firstattachment strap and a second attachment strap, wherein the firstretention tab and the first attachment strap both have a firstidentifying mechanism, wherein the second retention tab and the secondattachment strap both have a second identifying mechanism and whereinthe first identifying mechanism is different than the second identifyingmechanism.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first identifyingmechanism and the second identifying mechanism comprise at least one ofa color and a shape.
 14. The method of claim 9, and further comprisinginflating the inflatable core with at least one of air and foam beads.15. The method of claim 9, wherein the decorative cover substantiallycovers the inflatable core and wherein the decorative cover furthercomprises a closure mechanism.
 16. An inflatable furniture systemcomprising: an inflatable core having a sealed enclosed region; adecorative cover that at least partially covers the inflatable core; afirst attachment mechanism attached to one of the inflatable core andthe decorative cover, wherein the first attachment mechanism comprises afirst retention tab and a second retention tab; and a second attachmentmechanism attached to one of the inflatable core and the decorativecover to which the first attachment mechanism is not attached, whereinthe second attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment strap and asecond attachment strap, wherein the first retention tab is capable ofdetachably engaging the first attachment strap, wherein the secondretention tab is capable of detachably engaging the second attachmentstrap, wherein the first attachment strap and the first retention tabboth have a first identifying mechanism, wherein the second attachmentstrap and the second retention tab both have a second identifyingmechanism and wherein the first identifying mechanism is different thanthe second identifying mechanism.
 17. The inflatable furniture system ofclaim 16, wherein the first attachment mechanism is attached to an outersurface of the inflatable core and wherein the second attachmentmechanism is attached to an inner surface of the decorative cover. 18.The inflatable furniture system of claim 16, wherein the firstidentifying mechanism and the second identifying mechanism comprise atleast one of a color and a shape.
 19. The inflatable furniture system ofclaim 16, wherein the inflatable core is inflated with at least one ofair and foam beads.
 20. The inflatable furniture system of claim 16,wherein the decorative cover substantially covers the inflatable coreand wherein the decorative cover further comprises a closure mechanism.